HTTP vs HTTPS Overview

HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. It is an application layer protocol that facilitates communication between clients (like web browsers) and servers. HTTP operates on a request-response model, where a client sends a request, and the server responds accordingly.

Key features of HTTP include:

• Stateless: Each request is independent, and the server does not retain user data.
• Port: By default, HTTP uses port 80.
• Protocols: Supports various request methods like GET, POST, PUT, DELETE, etc.

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. It is an extension of HTTP that includes a layer of security. HTTPS uses SSL/TLS protocols to encrypt the data exchanged between the client and the server, ensuring confidentiality and integrity.

Key features of HTTPS include:

• Encryption: Data is securely encrypted, making it difficult for attackers to intercept.
• Authentication: Confirms the identity of the website through SSL certificates.
• Port: By default, HTTPS uses port 443.

Here are the primary differences between HTTP and HTTPS:

1. Security: HTTP is not secure, while HTTPS provides a secure communication channel.
2. Port Usage: HTTP typically uses port 80, whereas HTTPS uses port 443.
3. Data Encryption: Data transmitted over HTTP is sent in plaintext, while HTTPS encrypts data using SSL/TLS.
4. SEO Ranking: Search engines like Google favor HTTPS over HTTP, thus improving SEO rankings.

To ensure secure web communications, follow these best practices:

• Always use HTTPS for your websites.
• Obtain an SSL certificate from a trusted certificate authority.
• Regularly update and renew SSL certificates.
• Implement HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) to enforce HTTPS.